To put it simply, I adored it. It had everything I look for in a fantasy. Romance, magic, sweeping epic plot, engaging characters, interesting cultures... You created a wonderful world. --Catherine K.
Darkstar Rising is an enthralling tale of one young woman’s journey of discovery: of those around her, her hidden power, and her realization that she will decide the fate of her world.Good triumphing over evil, justice overcoming treachery, and knowledge replacing ignorance, this story satisfies at many levels.Susan is definitely an up-and-coming author, I can’t wait for her next novel! --Bob H., PA
I actually finished [Darkstar Rising] Tuesday afternoon. I didn't want to do school work Monday (I was caught up anyway), so I picked up your book instead. My boyfriend finally had to take it away about 10:30 that night so I would go to bed. I couldn't put it down! -- Kara H., MA
...I think the general idea of the story, your writing style, and the actual story itself was engaging and entertaining from beginnning to end. So in closing if this is what you can produce in your freshman effort in the world of mainstream fantasy novel writing I cannot wait for your next offering which I will purchase as soon as I see. Until then thank you for the entertainment your book brought me keep up the good work and I'll be waiting for the next one. -- Mike
"I picked up a copy of Darkstar Rising at Arisia earlier this year... Darkstar's world is a nicely integrated whole. You introduce a number of interesting, well-rounded and very human characters. You also introduce their friends, relatives, colleagues, acquaintences, and hangers-on, all with names and families of their own... Darkstar herself is *very* cool, and I liked the way her sister Tanith developed as the story progressed... Thank you for the effort in bringing Darkstar Rising to completion. I look forward to your next endeavor." -- John G.
"The colorful cover of DARKSTAR RISING is sure to jump out at potential readers. Once they read the back cover copy, they'll be hooked on the fascinating concept of the story. Ms. Hamilton's skill with strong, natural dialogue and wonderfully drawn setting are sure to garner the attention of her intended audience. Her excellent word choices in setting description showcase her high level of skill as an author. She builds tension throughout the book with well placed hooks, including at the end of each chapter." -- Judge's critique from the Writer's Digest 11th Annual International Self-Published Book Awards
Can I just say... WOW! ... I can't put the book down. I was up until AM last night reading, telling myself, "just one more chapter, then I'll go to bed." ... I absolutely love the visuals I get. I can see them in the forest and visualize the different people they encounter. It's wonderful! J.K. Rowling better watch out for you. Harry Potter be damned - there's a new princess in town and her name is Darkstar! -- Christine N.
"I bought a copy of Darkstar Rising at Arisia 2004. I bought it originally because, as a fellow author (I'm aspiring), I felt I should buy it and see what it was about... and it ended up being one of my favorite books of ALL TIMES... The book was beautifully written, hard to put down, and you really felt for the characters. They were a part of you. Thank you for this beautiful book. It is one story I know I will definitely pass down to my children and grandchildren." --Desiree C.
"I loved Darkstar Rising! I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, but I didn't want it to end, either. The characters really came alive for me; it didn't take long until I cared about what happened to them. I loved how the magic worked on this world, too. Each of the cultures felt so real, so rich and full - I feel like the next time I go walking through a forest, I could run into a Paemeri!" --Maureen R.
"I started your book last week. What interesting characters! It is very detailed and I can actually envision this place. I do have to confess that this is not my "usual" read, but I really like it! I'm only about 30 or so pages into it so far, but it is great and I just wanted you to know." -- Chris N.